The P cycle in natural water is shown in figure 5; the particular features of the biochemistry applicable to this element in effluent will be examined along with biological phosphate removal treatments (suspended growth (activated sludge) process).

Figure 5. Aquatic phosporus cycle

In order to develop, algae and bacteria mainly use PO43- ions (their ability to be dissolved in water can be caused by microbial action, especially due to the production of mineral or organic acids); nevertheless, they are also capable of assimilating the DOP thanks to specific enzymes called phosphatases that will be acid or alkaline depending on the pH at which they achieve their maximum efficiency.

During their lifetime or after their death, aquatic organisms discharge organic (particulate or dissolved) or mineral P; all these forms can be recycled immediately or after bacterial mineralisation, using the various mechanisms described above.

Additionally, there are two P cross flows between water and sediments:

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